Dance Moves From the Streets to the Classroom

Oct. 16, 2007

Page 2 of 2

The dance involves a lot of freestyle movement, but some steps are also highly choreographed and take dedication and practice to master. The group has been faithfully practicing three times a week for four months, along with endless hours of practice at home, in preparation for the team's first big performance.

"Nightline" was there to witness the performance. Maurice, who was chosen for a solo dance, said he felt "nervous a little, excited, good and great. It makes me happy."

He is not the only one. His mother is smiling too. "Mr. Minto and Mr. Thomas is his role model, and they are there to help him whenever he is angry," she said. "He's been very happy doing this footworkin' thing."

One Final Battle

Maurice and the team did great, but after his debut performance, he bumped into some trouble. He got suspended from the team for pushing another boy and tipping over a desk.

"I use footworkin' as the motivator for him," said Thomas. "If you can't get your behavior in order, then you won't footwork again. You won't practice, you won't be on the team."

Maurice's behavior improved in just one week, and he was allowed back into practice. But he must clear one final hurdle before he can join the team again. "When they come back, there is a ritual," said Minto. "You have to battle everybody at one time."

Maurice believes the point of the battle is to show what he's been missing during his suspension. "So someone might do a supercool move, and I might be like, 'how'd you do that?' and they'll be like, 'that's what you've been missing out.'"

Before the battle, Maurice can barely contain his excitement. Being on the team means everything to him. It is not just how to move your feet. It is about how to grow up.